In Cold Chamomile by Joy Avon is the third A Tea and Read Mystery. It can be read as a standalone. Callie Aspen is organizing a Valentine’s fundraiser at Haywood Hall with a variety of events. My favorite was Fall in Love with Books where there was a book exchange, a book sale, and book appraisals. There was also plants for sale, seed swap, dogs for adoption, a concert with a singer as well as tea and pastries. Mrs. Forrester is in charge of the book events and she is a perfectionist. She also organized the appraiser, Mr. King who had recently been on a television appraisal show. Aunt Iphy is out of sorts after seeing the replacement baritone. Turns out Aunt Iphy has a history with the singer, Sean Strong but she does not share the details with Callie. When Callie is taking a quiet moment outside, Peggy comes running towards her car and she is crying. She is upset by something Quinn has done, but (once again) she does not share what happened. Then Mrs. Moffett comes running out and announces, “he’s dead”. Mr. King, the appraiser, has been murdered. Mrs. Forrester was seen arguing with him and her prints are on the murder weapon. Deputy Ace Falk determines that Sean Strong, the baritone, is the killer. Aunt Iphy knows Sean did not kill the victim and needs Callie’s help in proving it. Ace Falk warns Callie to stay out of the investigation. Callie is aware that by becoming involved in the case, it may affect their personal relationship. The mystery was very straightforward and could easily be solved (early in the book). There was a lack of suspects, clues and investigation. Callie does not even check out the body or the room he was in before the police arrive. The majority of In Cold Chamomile focused on romantic issues. Peggy and Quinn, Aunt Iphy and Sean, plus Ace and Callie. I know the book is for Valentine’s Day, but the mystery should have been more complex and prominent. There were several inconsistencies in this book as well (those who have read the first two books will notice). Deputy Ace Falk treats Callie terribly and acts like a jerk. Callie needs to find a new love interest. Someone who will appreciate her and her curiosity. I thought the ending was odd. In Cold Chamomile was a miss for me. My favorite line in Cold Chamomile is, “...if there was an object in the world you could easily fall in love with, it had to be books.” In Cold Chamomile has a deceased evaluator, romantic morasses, tempting treats, a stylish singer, and a daft deputy.

I just love novels with books in the plot but also unrequited love, and long list sweethearts. This book has all three.

I really liked this book except for the ending. I was sure I knew who the killer was but not the reason.
Good plot, lots of twists, and kept me turning the pages. The murder victim is despicable and unscrupulous. I liked the mixing of the past with the present and learning more about the main characters.

3.5 Stars

Valentine’s Day brings more than hearts and roses when Callie finds herself steeping in a murder happens during a booktastic charity even.


Callie Aspen is unique in a few ways. She’s got a knack for getting things out of people yet you can tell there are times she feels guilty for digging in deeper than she should. Even drives her cop of a boyfriend batty with her sleuth thing. I personally just think he’s jealous because Callie is good at what she does. I liked how Callie would cut the conversation and excuse herself when she knew she was crossing the line yet hightailed it out of there before she did. In Cold Chamomile brings many changes in her life, along with a murder Callie can’t helped to be wrapped up in.

In Cold Chamomile is a Multi layered cozy mystery with a romance or two added in. Well develop characters with a vast array of personalities, charm and quarks that make them more relatable and fun. Joy Avon twisted and turned the plot, keeping readers guessing. While I had an idea of who, the why caught me by surprise. Callie and Iphy are a force, whether it be good or bad, these women will make you laugh. In Cold Chamomile is my first read of the A Tea and Read Mystery series and I felt like I was walking into a friend's house for tea and entertainment. The characters definitely drive the story while the layered plot keeps pages flying.

The third book in the A Tea and Read mystery series did not deliver the expected punch. It fell very flat.

There was much potential with the relationships between Iphy and Strong, Ace and Callie, and Quinn and Peggy but none of the stories between those couples were given a chance. What we did get was nuts and pieces and felt very rushed.

Overall it was a nice read.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

After reading the first two book in prep for this release, I was looking forward to reading this book ad seeing where everything was going.

Unfortunately, I found this book to be disappointing. Very disappointing actually. The characters fell very flat for me - it was like she was writing all new characters and none of them resembled the characters from the previous books. It was like reading a completely different series], and I found I did not really like them [or at least as much as I liked them before. Though the relationship between Ace and Callie still and continues to frustrate the HECK out of me]. I also thought the main character came off as weak in this book - she was wishy-washy, unsupportive and again, the relationship between her and Ace is beyond frustrating. I was not a fan of most of the characters this time around. And I am all for love [well, not really. In reality I am a horrible cynic who was burned so bad that I don't really believe in love, much less the "LOVE" that happens in books], but the end of this book is just absolutely RIDICULOUS. I may have sprained my eyes from rolling them so hard.

I have to believe that the author was just having an off day when she wrote this - I wasn't totally crazy about the first two, but they were a sight better than this one was. If she writes a fourth, I would be willing to give her one more try, but if it ended up being like this, I would be giving up this series easily. So disappointing and frustrating.

Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is the first Joy Avon book I've read and truthfully I picked it out because it was about books and tea (two of my favorite things). It was a very well written cozy with twists and turns and love in the wind. I feel like the characters greatly enhance the story. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Avon's books. I would definitely recommend this book. Enjoy!

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and Joy Avon has a delightful cozy mystery steeped with romance and intrigue that you have to read!!!

Callie and her great-aunt, Ipsy, are working together to bring romance, tea and books to a Valentine's Day event at Haywood Hall. However, the event doesn't go as planned when a book expert ends up dead. Can Callie and Ipsy save the day, and keep an innocent man out of jail?

Before I share how much I loved this book, can we take a moment to talk about that gorgeous cover? Those pinks and purples, and Daisy looking so innocent on the cover? It's a delight to the eyes, and I absolutely love how Joy Avon (and her cover designer) have captured the essence of this book, tinged with the Valentine's Day theme! It's just gorgeous!

And... the inside is just as good, if not better!!! In Cold Chamomile was my first visit to Heart's Harbour, but certainly not my last! I really enjoyed all the picturesque places, like Books Tea, and all the different people. There are so many delightful, memorable characters, including the grumpy librarian Mrs Forrester. I felt right at home in this cozy town, with so many places and people to visit.

Joy Avon crafts a tantalizing, thrilling mystery. It's easy to get caught up in the mystery, and abandon all other activities, just so you can finish this in one sitting!! The mystery is complex and well plotted, and even the most seasoned mystery readers will be stumped by this one.

I really just loved everything about this story. In particular, I love the relationships between the characters, and not just Callie and Ace. I'm so eager to pick up on these relationships in future books, and I can't wait to see what Joy Avon has in store for her characters next!!

If you're looking for the perfect Valentine's Day read pick up In Cold Chamomile. Better yet, pick it up and enjoy it with a cup of tea and a box of chocolates. It will be your best Valentine's Day gift to yourself!

Callie doesn't want to get involved in another murder investigation. And her boyfriend, Ace, also does not want her involved. He just so happens to be the deputy of Heart's Harbor. But when Callie's Aunt Iphy gets involved in the investigation, Callie feels compelled to help her.

I'm really enjoying the A Tea and Read Mystery series. And while this book works just fine as a stand alone, I'm glad I've read it from book #1. I enjoy all of the characters and it's nice to understand some of their backgrounds. it would be hard not to like Callie as she is good hearted and loves her hometown.

There are some significant changes for Callie at the end of this book. I'll be first in line for the next installment to see what life brings her way.

My thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for this ARC.

Rating 4.5/5*

This is another intriguing, highly entertaining cosy murder mystery by this talented author - complete with a second chance romance for added interest! This is the third book in the Tea and Read series and involves many characters from the previous books but I suspect it could still be enjoyed as a standalone.

Callie Aspen has helped organise a special Valentine's event at Haywood Hall, complete with live music, lots of books, an expert book valuer as well as tasty drinks and food. They're even helping encourage people to consider adopting a dog from the local rescue centre. However, what no one had anticipated is the murder of one of the attendees. Callie has helped solve two murders in the past and certainly wasn't expecting to be involved in any more. However, when the man Iphy loved more than 50 years ago is accused of murder, Iphy is determined to clear his name and Callie can't resist trying to help her - even though her boyfriend, Deputy Ace Falk, is adamant she should stay out of this investigation. Can the killer be brought to justice? What will happen to Callie and Ace's relationship?

With great characters, plenty of twists and turns and added love interests, this is a real page turner that kept me guessing. I definitely didn't immediately identify the perpetrator, there were a plethora of red herrings to misdirect you. The story is a great addition to this series and  I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I have no hesitation in highly recommending it to anyone who enjoys reading cosy murder mysteries set in a delightful community with fantastic characters. I suspect the added information in the ending will be like marmite - loved by some and hated by others . . . but you need to read it for yourself to discover what I mean!

I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it and finding it a fantastic, engaging, intriguing story.

"In Cold Chamomile " is the 3rd instalment in the “A Tea and Read” Mysteries by Joy Avon. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have now purchased the first book Peppermint Peril!

The third book in the "A Tea and Read Mystery" series is a quick and entertaining read. I still haven't read the first book "In Peppermint Peril" but I have added to top of my tbr pile. I was able to follow along easily so it can be read as a stand alone but I do recommend that you read from the beginning. I really enjoyed this instalment and read on a cold, snowy Sunday, curled up with a hot cop of tea and fresh made oatmeal raisin cookies.

I was excited to visit Heart’s Harbor, Maine again is and Book Tea! Both seem like my kind of place and I could quite happily settle in for a spell.

The protagonist Callie seems like a strong, independent woman but does tend to have a lot of internal dialogue going on which almost contradicts this. I especially love the relationship she has with her aunt Iphy and was happy to learn more of her back story this time. The side characters are well rounded and seem real as I could relate to each of them to some extent.

The mystery was interesting and well plotted, and I suspect the killer but there were good red herrings and plenty of twists to keep me guessing. The one surprise was the why...

I had a hard time putting it down and I cannot recommend this book any higher to all my cozy lover friends.

I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was a really good mystery that Aunt Iphy got a chance to take front stage in. Her old friend was in town for the Valentine's event and was the prime suspect in a book expert's death. I didn't like the tension between Callie and Ace as well as between Peggy and Quinn, so I sure hope all that gets resolved in the next book. There was a lot happening in this book, and I definitely couldn't put it down.

I hadn't honestly guessed the killer too far ahead, but there weren't tons of suspects. I'm always a sucker for a good red herring though. Ace seemed more on edge during this book than he had previously, but Callie and Iphy did do some snooping that he was justified in being upset at. As I said, I don't care for tension with characters and their love interests, so I'm relying on the next book to smooth it out. Aunt Iphy did get a sweet little ending out of this. I'm interested to see what she has to say when we see her next. I can't say too much or give it away. ;)

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher through NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

I've read the first two books in this series and expected to love the third book, a Valentine's Day installment involving a fundraiser at Haywood Hall. However, I was quite disappointed with it.

The plot was pretty good but the characters are starting to annoy me. While I was happy to see Iphy in love, I'm getting tired of all of Callie's introspection about romance in her life.

I'm willing maybe to give this series a second chance but I'm not sure about that. As far as cozies go, I would call this one average.

It’s Valentine’s Day in Hearts Harbor, and Callie and Iphy are running a fundraiser at Haywood Hall. Needless to say, there’s more murder than amour in store for the ladies when an antique book expert is found murdered. The chief suspect is Sean Strong, a famous baritone who was performing at the fundraiser. He’s also Iphy’s long lost love who, 50 years ago wanted her to run away with him. Iphy’s bound and determined to prove his innocence, and Ace is equally bound and determined that she and Callie stay out of his investigation. All of this leaves Callie between a rock and a hard place as she tries to maintain a relationship with the deputy and keep Iphy out of harm’s way.

An excellent mystery that keeps you guessing and has a satisfying and logical conclusion, characters who are well drawn and realistic (I’d love to hang out with Iphy for a day), and a story that is sweet and bittersweet at the same time combine to make this the best book in the series so far.

I received a free e-copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

This is book 3 in the A Tea and a Read Mystery series. It works well as a standalone. I did not read the first two books, and I never felt as if I missed something important that was revealed in previous books.

As far as cozy mysteries go, this was up there with some of my favorites. The plot was well thought out, with several people who could have been guilty of the murder, which definitely kept my interest. The story was interesting enough that I never felt as if I was plodding along, anxious to get to the end. The main character, Callie, along with her aunt, Iphy, were good choices for the lead; although, Callie’s boyfriend, Ace, was certainly quick to come to conclusions without enough evidence. I honestly was less than pleased with him as the main love interest.

The book does not contain cursing or sex, which are the two things I hate to see in books and have even crept into the cozy mysteries now and then much to my extreme disappointment.

This is a very solid four star book.

I received this book from Netgalley for review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Callie Aspen and her aunt Iphy, owner of Book Tea vintage tearoom, are involved in a case of murder. A Valentine themed party is in full swing, books to be appraised, music and singing, lovely treats to enjoy when the book appraiser is found dead. Relationships are soon to be in jeopardy as these ladies again involve themselves where they don't belong. Will they find the killer?
The characters are well developed and likable. Old acquaintances are renewed and new ones are growing, on the romantic side of murder.
I enjoyed this cozy mystery. It was a fast and typical mystery of he genre.

Joy Avon’s In Cold Chamomile is a light cosy with a decent mystery but it’s bogged down with a lagging plot and unnecessary character drama. This is the third book in the Tea and Read Mystery series but it works as a standalone.

It’s Valentine’s Day in Heart’s Harbor! Our protagonist Callie Aspen is helping out with the Valentine’s Event at historic Haywood Hall. The townspeople will enjoy a concert, books, and treats. However, love isn’t blossoming. Fussy librarian Mrs. Forrester has a huge argument with smarmy book appraiser Mr. King. Great-Aunt Iphy also has a mysterious encounter with baritone Sean who is an acquaintance from her past. When Mr. King is murdered at the event, there’s a long list of suspects. Deputy Falk soon suspects Sean but Iphy will do anything to clear his name. Now Callie, who is stuck between loyalty to her Aunt and her budding romance with Falk, must find a killer before it’s too late!

This is an okay one-time read if you’re looking for something that you can breeze through in a few hours without thinking too much. However, this book had potential and I am really disappointed with the mystery and the characters. It also lacks charm and warmth although it’s a Valentine’s Day mystery.

The mystery is interesting with some red herrings and viable suspects. However, the murderer is very obvious. I wish Avon had better developed this plotline. I also wish there was a lot more sleuthing because the mystery plot dragged and the action jumps erratically. I know this is a Valentine’s mystery but this book neglected the mystery in favour of pointless romance drama. Too much time is spent on the characters’ unnecessarily dramatic romantic interactions that could’ve been spent on developing suspects. The dialogue is better than the previous book but it is still stilted and often feels like an info dump.

I was hoping that this book would develop the characters much more than the previous book. Instead, they seem like a completely new set of characters! They act extremely implausibly and childishly. I struggled to connect with and understand them. Callie is a fairly likeable protagonist but I wish she was more interesting and not such a pushover. I hated her interactions with her controlling and patronizing boyfriend, Deputy Falk. I wanted to learn more about Great-Aunt Iphy. But in this book, she’s selfish and insufferable. She acts more like a child than an older woman!

In Cold Chamomile is an easy and okay read with a good mystery that had the potential to be much better. I’m not sure if I will continue with this series because the characters aren’t interesting enough and the writing isn’t very engaging.




💔💔 ½ broken hearts out of 5!

This was alright, but it suffered from an obvious killer and too much relationship drama for the sake of drama. I don’t think I’ll continue to review this series.


I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not paid for this review.

Another cozy mystery that checked many boxes. The third book in the series, I hadn't read any of the previous ones, and while that did leave me out of the loop for a little bit of the backstory, it didn't prevent me from enjoying the book. From the quirky Iphy to the cranky Ms. Forrester, this book brought enough variety to keep me entertained. I did figure out who the culprit was, but the motive was an unexpected twist that I really liked as were the motives for all of the potential suspects. My only negatives - Peggy's reactions to Quinn was a bit of a letdown, and the happily ever after ending I like didn't occur like I wanted. Hopefully the next book in the series rights that wrong!

Loved revisiting the tea shop. I like the author's style of writing. The plot kept me turning the pages with lost of suspects and I was genuinely surprised at who did it. The ending made me a little sad as it ended well for a few but not for a few of my favorite characters. Look forward to reading more in this series.